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As I sit here with the heating turned up to full, having just been defeated by the howling wind and driving snow at today’s medal on the Marlborough Downs, it’s difficult believe that less than 24 hours ago, we were striding down the magnificent fairways of Deal bathed in glorious Spring sunshine.

The traditional opening match of the season against Royal Cinque Ports Golf Club, was held yesterday over the magnificent links at Deal. Despite the forecast, we were greeted with un-relenting sunshine and nothing more than a light breeze – perfect golfing weather.

Many of the stalwarts of this fixture we unavailable for a variety of reasons so it was heartening to see some new faces.

To the golf, the morning foursomes, very much went the way of the Club. Mark Lacey and Ian Saunders managed to overhaul a deficit at the turn to register a half point and Jo Gunnell and Phill Merry brought home our only win of the morning meaning the match stood at 3½ to 1½ in favour of the Club.

The lunch at Deal did not disappoint, Steak & Kidney pudding accompanied by a glass of Berry Bros. & Rudd Good Ordinary Claret followed by treacle tart and London Pride ice cream is difficult to beat.

We managed to put up a better show in the afternoon foursomes; another half for Mark Lacey with Phill Merry as his partner and full points for the pairings of Yours Truly with Mirza Datoo and Jo Gunnel and Ian Saunders saw us sharing the spoils 2½ to 2½. The final score in the match end up 6 to 4 in favour of the Club.

It is sometimes easy to take things for granted but it’s worth pausing to reflect that we are extremely privileged to have to opportunity to play golf over some magnificent courses in fantastic company – it’s by the grace of the clubs that host these matches.

Here’s looking forward to the rest of what promises to be a terrific season – if you haven’t played in any matches for some time, I would encourage you to make this year, the year that you get involved.

David Watson (Doc)
Captain, AOGS

About David Watson

Current Captain of AOGS. Served very briefly on an SSLC with 25 Field Regiment RA in 1978. Now involved in two Marketing Companies and a Wine Business. Thoroughly enjoy playing with both AOGS and RAGS. Can often make myself available for matches even at short notice.

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Army Officers’ Golfing Society

AOGS is a golfing society open to all serving and retired officers of the British Army. The Society plays matches against other societies and golf clubs in the UK as well as holding annual Summer and Autumn meetings.